THIOLS Meaning and
Definition
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Thiols are a class of organic compounds that contain a functional group known as a sulfhydryl (-SH) group. Also referred to as mercaptans, thiols are characterized by the presence of a sulfur atom bonded to a hydrogen atom. The sulfur-hydrogen bond in thiols is highly polar due to the difference in electronegativity between sulfur and hydrogen.
Thiols have a distinct and pungent odor, often described as similar to that of garlic or rotten eggs. This strong odor is a result of the volatile nature of thiols, which readily vaporize at room temperature. Due to their odor, thiols are often used in the gas industry as odorants to detect the presence of natural gas, which is odorless.
Thiols are important in various biological processes and can be found in living organisms. They play a vital role in the metabolism of certain substances and are involved in various physiological functions. For instance, thiols are involved in the regulation of cellular redox reactions and can act as antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative damage. They also participate in protein folding and stabilization, and can contribute to the structural stability of proteins by forming disulfide bonds.
Additionally, thiols are utilized in various industrial applications. They are commonly used in the synthesis of organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals, flavors, and fragrances. Due to their reactive nature, thiols can easily undergo chemical reactions, making them useful in organic chemistry for creating new molecules and modifying existing ones.
Common Misspellings for THIOLS
Etymology of THIOLS
The word "thiols" is derived from the combination of two parts: "thio" and "alcohol".
- "Thio" comes from the Greek word "thion", meaning sulfur.
- "Alcohol" comes from the Arabic word "al-kuḥl", initially referring to a fine powder used as the antimony cosmetic.
Hence, "thiol" refers to a sulfur-containing derivative of alcohols.
